The Ethical, Care, and Client-Caregiver Relationship Impacts Resulting From Introduction of Digital Communication and Surveillance Technologies in the Home Setting: Qualitative Inductive Study

Abstract

Background: Embedding communication and surveillance technology into the home health care setting has demonstrated the capacity for increased data efficiency, assumptions of convenience, and smart solutions to pressing problems such as caregiver shortages amid a rise in the aging population. The race to develop and implement these technologies within home care and public health nursing often leaves several ethical questions needing to be answered.

Objective: The aim of this study was to understand the ethical and care implications of implementing digital communication and surveillance technologies in the home setting as perceived by health caregivers practicing in the region of Halland in Sweden with clients receiving home care services.

Methods: A questionnaire was completed by 1260 home health caregivers and the written responses were evaluated by qualitative inductive content analysis. The researchers reviewed data independently and consensus was used to determine themes.

Results: This study identified three main themes that illustrate ethical issues and unintended effects as perceived by caregivers of introducing digital communication and surveillance technologies in the home: (1) digital dependence vulnerability, (2) moral distress, and (3) interruptions to caregiving. This study highlights the consequences of technology developers and health systems leaders unintentionally ignoring the perspectives of caregivers who practice the intuitive artistry of providing care to other humans.

Conclusions: Beyond the obtrusiveness of devices and impersonal data collection designed to emphasize health care system priorities, this study discovered a multifaceted shadow side of unintended consequences that arise from misalignment between system priorities and caregiver expertise, resulting in ethical issues. To develop communication and surveillance technologies that meet the needs of all stakeholders, it is important to involve caregivers who work with clients in the development process of new health care technology to improve both the quality of life of clients and the services offered by caregivers.

Keywords: care of the elderly; caregivers; communication technology; digital vulnerability; ethical implications; home care; public health nursing practices; surveillance technology.